The International Land-Based Shark Fishing Association (The ILSFA) will Pioneer new World Record Categories for Released Fish, Research Efforts and Sport Unification.
Land-Based Shark Fishing is defined as, "Attempting to capture and / or the actual capture of sharks using a rod, reel, line, and hook(s) from the land and anything permanently attached to it". For example: jetties, piers and bridges.
Among the defining efforts of the ILSFA is its designation of a new world record category for sharks released after capture. By using a widely accepted large species estimated weight formula, in conjunction with other specific qualifying measures, anglers will have the opportunity to be officially recognized internationally for their accomplishments without having to weigh their catch.
With large, predatory species, such as sharks, this has never been practical without killing an animal for the purpose of obtaining its true weight. The Association will also issue records for weighed fish. However, it is worthy to note the expanding trend in this rapidly growing sport is the practice of catch and release fishing.
The fusion of this trend with the new record category, along with cooperative tagging research already conducted by many anglers, a devoted membership and partnerships with various research organizations, tackle manufacturers and the recreational fishing industry as a whole is intended to be a win-win-win combination of interests.
According to Sean Paxton, Founder & President of the ILSFA, "This one-of-a-kind sport, along with its rich history and dedicated anglers need a place to call home". In 2002 he envisioned this new association with exactly that and more in mind.
Now, with the support of some of the sport's pioneers and new generation anglers it is set to launch with an ambitious, but focused mission, "To unify the sport of Land-Based Shark Fishing and its anglers by establishing standards for the compilation and recognition of world records; while also promoting, through research, education and practice, responsible enjoyment and stewardship of our marine and coastal resources."
Record eligibility and various annual memberships in the ILSFA with select benefits will become available in June of 2006. As of the date of this release, several ILSFA Staff appointments remain open. If you have in interest in participating in this capacity or for additional information on the sport or The Association, you can contact Sean Paxton directly or visit www.LandBasedSharkFishing.com.
ABOUT The ILSFA – Formed to unify the sport of Land-Based Shark Fishing and its anglers by establishing standards for the compilation and recognition of world records, while also promoting, through research, education and practice, responsible enjoyment and stewardship of our marine and coastal resources. See ILSFA website